Buzzing Balmain

Balmain is a suburb in Inner West, Sydney and is located just 2 kilometres west of Sydney’s Central Business District making it accessible to some self storage rental nearby. It sits on the Balmain peninsula that juts out of Sydney Harbour and is directly opposite Milsons Point. The population for Balmain is approximately 11,000 residents with 62% born in Australia. Over 80% of the population only speak English at home. The biggest religious denomination is Catholic at around 23% and 42% of the residents is non-religious. The population consists of wealthy older couples.

The area now known as Balmain was named after Scottish born naval surgeon, Dr William Balmain who was granted 550 acres (223 hectares) by Governor, John Hunter in 1800. A year later Dr Balmain transferred his entire holding to John Borthwick Gilchrist to settle a debt before returning to Scotland.

Balmain became an industrial centre which included ship building, metal foundries, engineering, boiler making and Mort’s Dock. A coal mine was also opened here in 1897.

This suburb is rich in history and character with undeniable charm that exudes affluence. The main hub is Darling Street that features boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, clubs and pubs. . The residents’ health care needs are addressed at the Balmain Hospital.

Balmain has several parks including Gladstone Park, Birrung Park, White Bay Park and Punch Park. Some of the churches in the area include St Augustine’s Catholic Church, Balmain Uniting Church, St James Forest Lodge and St John’s Anglican Church.

It is also home to many historic hotels like the Cat and the Fiddle Hotel, Cricketer’s Arms Hotel, Dick’s Hotel, Dry Dock Hotel, Exchange Hotel as well as the Riverview Hotel a heritage listed building which was built in 1880. These are only a few of the numerous hotels in the area.

The schools in the area include:

• Balmain Public School
• Birchgrove Public School
• Nicholson Street Public School
• Father John Therry Catholic Primary School
• Inner Sydney Montessori School

Balmain is serviced by trains, ferries and buses (routes: 433, 441, 442, 444 and 445). Ferries are the fastest and most scenic way to get to Balmain. Ferries start at Circular Quay and Darling Harbour to Balmain East Wharf, Thames Street and Yurulbin. Driving to Balmain is not recommended due to the many bottlenecks on Victoria Road and across Anzac Bridge.

Although commuting is difficult in this part of New South Wales, relocating shouldn’t be – especially with SmartBox. These mobile storage units are convenient in that you could place a call for one to be delivered to your door, you pack it up with whatever you like, lock it and call SmartBox again to collect the unit. Your goods will be taken away and stored securely until you ask for it again. Hassle free storage literally at your fingertips!